If you loved the cyberpunk thriller 'Lost in Shell (2018)' and are craving more mind-bending sci-fi adventures, you're in the right place. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of identity, technology, and dystopian futures, perfect for fans of the genre.

Blade Runner (1982)
Description: A neo-noir sci-fi film that questions what it means to be human, set in a rain-soaked, neon-lit dystopian future with replicants and existential dilemmas.
Fact: The film's visual style was heavily influenced by the artwork of French comic book artist Moebius, and its soundtrack by Vangelis is considered iconic.


Akira (1988)
Description: A groundbreaking anime that delves into themes of power, corruption, and human evolution, featuring a dystopian cityscape and intense action sequences.
Fact: The film's production involved over 160,000 animation cels, a record at the time, and its soundtrack was one of the first to use a combination of traditional and electronic instruments.


Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
Description: A deeply psychological mecha anime that delves into themes of existentialism, trauma, and human connection, with a visually striking and often surreal style.
Fact: The series' iconic opening theme, 'A Cruel Angel's Thesis,' became a cultural phenomenon in Japan and remains one of the most recognizable anime songs.


Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Description: This film explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the merging of human and machine, set in a cyberpunk future with stunning visuals and philosophical depth.
Fact: The film's iconic opening sequence features a cyborg being assembled, blending organic and mechanical elements in a visually striking manner.


The Matrix (1999)
Description: A revolutionary film that blends cyberpunk aesthetics with philosophical questions about reality, control, and freedom, featuring groundbreaking action sequences.
Fact: The film's 'bullet time' effect was achieved using a rig of 120 still cameras and was inspired by the work of photographer Eadweard Muybridge.


Cowboy Bebop (1998)
Description: A genre-blending space western with a jazz-infused soundtrack, exploring themes of loneliness, redemption, and the past's inescapability.
Fact: The series was originally intended to be a children's show but evolved into a more mature narrative due to the creative team's desire for artistic freedom.


Ergo Proxy (2006)
Description: A cerebral anime series that combines cyberpunk elements with existential philosophy, set in a post-apocalyptic world where androids and humans coexist.
Fact: The series' title refers to the philosophical concept of the 'ergo proxy,' a stand-in for the self, reflecting its deep thematic exploration of identity.


Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Description: A sequel that continues to explore themes of identity, memory, and humanity, with breathtaking cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful score.
Fact: The film's production design involved building massive practical sets, including a futuristic Las Vegas, to create a tangible sense of scale and realism.


Psycho-Pass (2012)
Description: A dystopian anime series that examines a society where human emotions and potential for crime are quantified, raising questions about free will and justice.
Fact: The series' concept of the 'Sibyl System' was inspired by real-world predictive policing technologies and psychological theories.


The Animatrix (2003)
Description: A collection of animated shorts that expand the lore of a cyberpunk universe, exploring diverse animation styles and philosophical themes.
Fact: The project involved several renowned anime directors, each bringing their unique visual and narrative style to the anthology.
